Inline image 1 for NIQ Insider 2026

The Quest For Next

Why Attend?

The Quest For Next

As our theme this year, we will be discussing

  • Next Gen Consumer Understanding
  • Next Stage Innovation & AI Efficiencies
  • Next Level Leadership & Talent
Exclusive Insights

We will discuss the challenges facing senior leaders and review opportunities to optimize strategies in a digital first world.    

Networking Opportunities

Connect with fellow industry leaders and NIQ experts in an intimate setting .

Complimentary Food & Drink

Enjoy a variety of gourmet meals and beverages throughout the day from the top-notch catering team at Madam restaurant. 

Keynote Speaker

Frederic Fernandez

Frederic Fernandez is the Founder and Managing Director of FF&A, a strategy consulting firm recognized for solving some of the most complex challenges in the global FMCG sector. He and his team advise C‑level leaders across many of the world’s largest consumer goods companies, with 14 of the top 20 FMCG players counted as repeat clients. In addition to his advisory work, Frederic regularly shares strategic insights on industry trends via social media, where his content generates more than 10 million views annually. 

Mark Cooper

Mark Cooper is the SVP Global Portfolio, Coty, Mark is a highly experienced senior business leader with over 30+ years’ experience spanning Coty, Reckitt, Pfizer and GSK. Focused on both understanding local and global businesses, Mark is passionate about Innovation, Brand Building, Business Development, Sales & Trade marketing, and Acquisitions.

Simon Pollock

Simon Pollock is a global insights and analytics leader known for building strong teams and turning data into effective growth strategies. With 30+ years across major brands like Kellogg’s, Pringles, Häagen-Dazs, and Kraft, he brings deep expertise in understanding consumer behavior and driving business results. He now also serves on boards, helping agencies elevate their offerings. Outside work, Simon stays grounded through gardening and yoga.

Ramesh Mishra

Ramesh Mishra is a seasoned consumer insights and innovation leader with 20+ years of experience driving research‑led growth. As Global Client Leader at NIQ BASES, he partners with leading multinational brands to uncover insights that power successful innovation and product strategy across global markets. Known for his expertise in innovation, strategy, and product testing, Ramesh excels at translating complex data into clear, actionable stories that enable confident decision‑making. His strategic mindset and client‑focused approach continue to shape how organizations understand and engage with consumers.

Agenda

12:30 – 13:30 Guest Arrival and Standing Lunch
13:30 – 13:40 Guests move to the Loft
13:40 – 13:50 Welcome
13:50 – 14:50 Next Gen Consumer Understanding

FMCG Leaders: Ten Thoughts On How To Deliver Repeatable Growth Outperformance In Unprecedented And Bifurcating Times & Ten Predictions For 2026-30

14:50 – 15:40 Next Stage Innovation & AI

Innovation is no longer just about product launches – it’s about execution excellence: how products are sold, not just what is sold. ​
With AI poised to transform R&D, pricing, and marketing, many FMCG firms will need to consider a transformation journey to stay ahead of the pack.

15:40 – 16:10 Tea / Coffee Break
16:10 – 17:10 Next Level Leadership & Training (Pannel Discussion)

Traditional leadership roles are evolving.
Attracting and retaining high-performing talent will be critical to the FMCG industry’s future.
Join us for an open discussion on how we can build leadership skillsets and a talent pipeline that blend commercial acumen with data and tech literacy.​

17:10 – 18:30 Aperitif, Canapes and Networking
18:30 – 19:00 Guests move for dinner
19:00 – 21:30 Dinner

Important Information 

Travel and Accommodation – Please note that NIQ will not be able to cover client travel or accommodation expenses.  

Location – Trains run every 5-10 minutes from Schipol airport to Amsterdam Centraal station and take approximately 15 minutes. From the back of Amsterdam Centraal station, you can take the free 5 minute ferry ride – F3 to Buiksloterweg (running every 5-10 minutes) followed by a 4 minute walk along the IJ waters. 

Food & Drinks – Complimentary throughout the event.  

If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know in advance.